Deuteronomy 3: Lessons on Spirit-Led Leadership from the Jews’ Defeat of the Amorites

Introduction: Chapter three is the third and final part of Moses’ prologue preceding the presentation of the Deuteronomic code. Like the first two chapters, chapter three provides a summary of events described in greater detail in the book of Numbers. Also like the first two chapters, Moses discusses the three themes of faith, God’s character, and Spirit-led leadership. The final part of the prologue focuses on lessons in Spirit-led leadership. From the examples of how Moses dealt with fear, governance, and succession, we can learn seven lessons on being a Spirit-led leader. First, a Spirit-led leader must not fear an enemy. Second, a Spirit-led leader praises God to others in victory or in defeat. Third, a Spirit-led leader has the integrity to keep his or her promises. Fourth, a Spirit-led leader promotes unity and a common purpose in the body of Christ. Fifth, a Spirit-led leader inspires and builds up others. Sixth, a Spirit-led leader is held to a higher standard. Finally, guided by the Holy Spirit, a leader for God prepares a successor to one day take over his or her ministry.

1. A Spirit-led Leader Must Not Fear His or Her Enemies. Dt. 3:1-2, 11.

With God’s power, the Jews defeated the giant King Og1

2. A Spirit-Led Leader Praises God for His Deliverance. Dt. 3:2(b)-10.

With God’s power, the Jews defeated the Amorite army2

3. A Spirit-Led Leader Must Have the Integrity to Honor All His Promises. Dt. 3:12-17.

Two and a Half Tribes Reject God’s Promised Land (Art by Rivka Korf Studio)3

4. A Spirit-Led Leader Should Instill Common Purpose in the Body. Dt. 3:18-20.

5. A Good Leader Must Inspire Other Leaders. Dt. 3:21-22.

When you do God’s will, you never need to fear evil4

6. God’s Leaders Are Held To A Higher Standard. Dt. 3:23-27.

7. Leaders Must Train Up Successors in the Body. Dt. 2:28.